What should you know about Nexplanon insertion?

A trained clinician checks that the implant is suitable for you, discusses pregnancy prevention and possible bleeding changes, and confirms the planned arm. The skin is cleaned and numbed before the flexible rod is guided just beneath the skin on the inner side of the upper arm. You should be able to feel the rod under the skin, although it should not be deeply embedded.

A dressing or pressure bandage may be placed afterwards. Tenderness, bruising, mild swelling, or a small amount of bleeding around the insertion point can occur as the area settles. The implant does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms may still be useful when infection protection is needed.

Tell the clinician about possible pregnancy, medicines and supplements, allergies, bleeding problems, liver disease, or a previous contraceptive implant. Follow the instructions for keeping the dressing clean and dry, and avoid pressing or rubbing the site while it is sore. Check that you can locate the rod once the bandage is removed, without repeatedly handling it.

Ask when contraceptive protection begins, because timing can depend on where you are in your menstrual cycle and whether you are changing from another method. Use the recommended backup method until your clinician confirms that protection has started. Arrange removal or replacement when advised; do not try to remove the rod yourself.

Contact the inserting clinician if the wound becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen, or painful, if pus or persistent bleeding appears, or if you develop a fever. Seek prompt assessment if the rod cannot be felt, seems to have moved, or was inserted too deeply. Sudden arm weakness, numbness, or severe pain also needs urgent medical attention.

Get urgent help for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. If you have concerning symptoms of pregnancy, including severe lower abdominal pain or unusual bleeding, seek medical advice promptly.

Useful questions include: When will contraception begin for me? Which medicines could affect the implant? What bleeding pattern should I report? How should I care for the dressing? When should the implant be checked, replaced, or removed?